It is unfortunate how things unfolded for Sven. He was an exciting pick at the time I remember in some mock drafts he was 7-8th overall. The main reason he was exciting was the fact he wasn't Mark McNeil or any other big Canadian grinder we were used to under Sutter (Chucko, Pelech, Nemisz). He seemed to symbolize the start of a new era for drafting for the Flames where skill was a top priority.
He impressed in camp but things really ramped up during his post draft season. 2ppg and dynamic with the puck. Albany Flames fans dreamed he could be called up and thanks to injuries it happened. 3 goals in 5 games all wins was everything we could have hoped for.
The next season started in a lockout and we were treated to Sven turning pro. I remember watching heat games and Sven looked like the best player on either team playing and I was convinced he was going to be an instant impact player at the NHL level.
When Burke came on the scene and stated he wasn't sold I was a fan that didn't agree. He has seemingly fallen off a cliff since the start of last year. He had a few nice offensive plays when paired with Monahan but invisible in every other aspect of the game.
I feel he has been given every opportunity this year. He was a late cut in camp even though he was mediocre, and he was an early call up this season despite poor stats (admittedly didn't watch). Outside of a game or 2 he has been pretty bad this year. Johnny and Monahan quickly passed him last year but Jooris, Granlund, and Ferland have passed him this year.
I don't want to give him away but wouldnt mind if he was shipped to shore up other needs. His pedigree and the flames amole cap space make for an interesting package. I used to see him as a top line or at least top 6 winger long term on this team. He even said he wanted to be the next franchise player but I just don't see it anymore.
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